THE ARDOYNE BONFIRES

By Paul McCann

Lower on down the mountain, up around the bend ,

Beyond Glencurran's stream you'll find the Ardoyne men ,

Chopping down chestnut trees for August bonfire night ,

when all around the streets bonfires will be alight .

Up around the bend near Harmony Hill you'll find ,

Ardoyne men pulling ropes with Irish Oaks behind .

Down into the village with blisters on their hand,

Ardoyne men bursting with pride for old Ireland .

Higher up the mountain near Divis Peak you'll see,

Ardoyne men with axes lopping down an Elm tree.

Then as they roll it down to the foot of the hill ,

They all stand around for a moment until

They have summoned up the strength to lift the Elm tree

And then carry it down for all Ardoyne to see.

Build up the bonfire on that blessed August night,

Keep a steady vigil before its set alight .